The Director General of Health Services (DGHS) has issued a warning against the reuse of single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items, particularly in critical specialties like Cardiology, Nephrology, Oncology, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Neurosurgery, and other specialized clinical services.
The Director General of Health Services (DGHS) has expressed concern over the reuse of single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items in certain private and corporate hospitals. In a letter to Chief Secretaries, Health Secretaries, and Directors of Heath Services of all States and Union Territories, DGHS stated that these devices are being sterilised and reused despite being designated for single use only. This practice, according to DGHS, raises concerns relating to patient safety, infection prevention and control, regulatory compliance, and healthcare expenditure. The DGHS letter further mentions that the reuse of such items can expose patients to significant risks, including cross-infection, device malfunction, loss of performance, and other procedure-related complications.
The warning from DGHS applies to all public and private healthcare facilities across India. The DGHS has asked all States and Union Territories to ensure strict vigilance and effective enforcement against the reuse of single-use medical devices and disposable surgical items in order to maintain patient safety and prevent the spread of infections.
Source:
Akashvani News
